LadlesportADV is Closing the Coop.

So, here we stand, five unforgettable years later, at the bittersweet conclusion of this journey. What began as a simple passion project focused on a single product for the Yamaha Super Tenere blossomed into an adventure that I never could have imagined. Yet, the time has come to gracefully draw the curtain on this chapter of my life. This endeavor was never intended to replace my day job or make me a millionaire; it was a heartfelt hobby that sustainably nurtured itself—and that's pretty cool! LadlesportADV became my canvas, a place where I could unleash my creativity, design, craft, and share special products with fellow enthusiasts. It also gifted me the opportunity to learn and grow while having the time of my life.

Now, before anyone wonders why I’m not pushing forward, let me be honest: the joy has faded in recent months. If memory serves me right, hobbies are meant to spark joy, not stress. I've found myself preoccupied with dwindling sales, pondering potential new product lines, and brainstorming what innovative parts I could breathe life into. Sure, I could easily go out and buy the latest motorcycle to develop new accessories around—of course I could! But then I grapple with the daunting task of creating something genuinely original that riders would clamor to buy. Over five years, amidst fierce competition, I witnessed growth and even managed to turn a modest profit, yet never did I see imitators like Temu breezily selling knockoffs and undercutting my prices by 50-75%. This is what "living the dream" looks like.

It's become clear to me that LadlesportADV has simply reached its natural conclusion. Rather than depleting every last resource, it’s time to thoughtfully prepare to close the coop for the final time. Sales have taken a downturn these past two quarters, lingering at a point where sustainability is slipping away. While it might seem tempting to invest more money in an attempt to keep it afloat, I must remind myself that this is a hobby. The business doesn't possess the financial prowess to splurge on top-tier website SEO or shimmering social media ads. I strive to remain honest with myself and my community on social media, acknowledging my shortcomings in that area. If no one likes or shares a post, that's okay—there’s no shame in that. Could I improve this part? Absolutely—enroll in a class, hire help, or persistent trial and error. But investing in such modern business tactics doesn’t resonate with me, and I refuse to spend beyond what feels right for my little hobby. Some might argue that I’m giving up too easily by not risking it all and pouring in more resources, but honestly? I'd much rather be out riding bikes—that's where my heart truly lies.

As I look back, I’m filled with gratitude and joy. I’ve had an absolute blast, leaving this journey with a little more than I initially invested and—most importantly—countless incredible connections. From fellow riders who share my passion to inspiring YouTubers and Instagram influencers…this, my friends, is what winning at life truly looks like.

I am profoundly thankful for the global Super Tenere community and beyond, especially to the friend from the gym who ignited the spark back in early 2020. A huge thanks to Owen L. AKA @UnofficallyOwen, for your support and relentless tagging of our products and brand on Instagram, without you I most likely would not own an Africa Twin and its Mid-Rise fender kit would not exist. Thanks to Nick S, AKA @Unqualified2Ride on Instagram and YourTube, your feedback, rigorous product testing and encouragement is priceless. A huge thanks to Mike S. at TacoMotoCo for believing in me and becoming my first and only wholesale customer. This appreciation extends to friends who supported my vision by lending me their motorcycles, helping me measure and fit prototype parts. And to my brother-in-law, who created the iconic LadlesportADV Shouting Chicken, thank you! To my dear friend George for his creative graphic design work and unwavering encouragement—you’ve been invaluable.  

Finally, how can I express my deepest love and thanks to my wife, my rock, my ride or die? While “gratitude” feels inadequate, I owe her so much—for not only encouraging me on this journey but also for grounding me when my ideas soared too high. She helped manage the books, took countless shipments to the post office, picked up orders, and scoured for materials. I couldn’t have made it this far without her steadfast support.

So what does all of this mean to you? We’re having a sale starting on Friday April 18th. All remaining inventory is marked down 20%. All stock quantities have been checked and when things are sold out there is none left. The Transalp and Africa Twin Fender Riser Kits are switching to Pre Order only so I can keep inventory of hoses to a minimum. As of writing this I have a limited number of brackets and hardware for these bikes so that means that I am only able to make 12 complete kits.